Roza and Intention - Important Jurisprudential Points

Roza and Niyat—Important Fiqhi Points

In Ramadan, Roza (fasting) is a great act of worship, but the foundation of this worship is based on Niyat (intention). Scholars say that Niyat is the name of the heart's intention; it is not necessary to say it verbally, but it is necessary to be determined in the heart that I am fasting for the pleasure of Allah Almighty.
Generally, there is a misconception among people that if the words of Niyat are not spoken during Sehri (pre-dawn meal), then perhaps the Roza will not be valid. However, the Fiqhi principle is that if a person has made a firm intention to fast in his heart, then the Niyat is done. Eating Sehri itself is a sign that the Niyat is present.
Scholars also clarify that the Niyat for obligatory fasts, especially the fasts of Ramadan, should be made at night or before Fajr (dawn). However, if someone makes Niyat after Fajr, at the beginning of the day, in a state where he has not done anything against the fast until now, then according to Fiqh, the Roza becomes valid. This is a manifestation of the ease and mercy of Sharia.
Another important point that scholars draw attention to is that hesitation or doubt in the Niyat weakens the Roza. If a person keeps thinking, "I don't know if I will fast or not," then the perfection of worship does not remain in such a state. Roza is the name of certainty, sincerity, and trust in Allah.
Similarly, some people keep Roza merely as a habit or social custom, while scholars say that it is necessary to have a sense of worship in the Niyat. When there is a feeling in the heart that I am acting on the command of Allah, only then does Roza become a means of reforming and training a person.
Therefore, it is necessary that we do not take the Niyat of Roza lightly. Niyat is the soul of worship, and without the soul, the action remains merely an outward form. Niyat with knowledge, and sincerity with Niyat—this is the path that makes Roza acceptable to Allah.
May Allah Almighty grant us the ability to have correct Niyat, sincere worship, and acceptance. Amen.